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Location notes

A very popular shot on the West Highland line. The location is the end of a river valley where the line comes out of a shear rock face onto a viaduct.

Railway type and traffic

Standard fare is 156 or 158 DMUs. Most of the interest is generated by charters. The Jacobite steam workings or Royal Scotsman are some regular examples. There is no freight on the line, there is a possibility of some engineers workings but these are very rare,

Environment

Midge area - Take suitable protection.

An exposed costal hilltop in the West Highlands of Scotland, be prepared for changes in the elements.

Road directions

Follow the A830 out of Fort William towards Mallaig, you will pass many other locations on the way - Including Glenfinnan Viaduct. After you have passed through Polnish you will descend down a hill and the viaduct will be in front of you.Once parked there is a gate and a small river bridge, follow this path over the river and under the viaduct and then walk up the right hand side of the hill to reach the top.

There are a number of road side places to park your car here. But be cautious unless you park your car a short distance along the road your car will appear in the shot! If you can see the hilltop from your car, then you would be better moving back a bit.

The shot is not really a going away shot (unless you are photographing units) in which case you will get plenty of notice of approaching trains as the line can be seen on the left for a good mile or so. Being south facing the sun will suit an afternoon shot as it will have moved round to the west of the line and should illuminate the mountain nicely.

This can be a very popular location when a special is running. If you want a prime position you will need to arrive well in advance.

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